June Bernicoff, 'Gogglebox' OG superstar, passes away at 82 after short illness

TV series 'Gogglebox' star June Bernicoff has passed away at the age of 82 following a short illness.

Channel 4 and production firm Studio Lambert issued a statement on behalf of her family.

“We are deeply saddened to announce that Gogglebox’s much-loved June Bernicoff passed away at the age of 82 on May 5 at home with her family by her side after a short illness," the statement read.

“As the first couple to be cast for 'Gogglebox' back in 2013 June and her husband Leon were a huge part of the program’s success. Their warmth, wit, and contrasting personalities endeared them to the nation during the course of the first 10 series," it continued. “Following Leon’s passing in December 2017, June wrote her first book, 'Leon And June: Our Story', which was a deeply moving and entertaining chronicle of their 60-year love affair."

June was described as a "remarkably independent, principled woman with a vivacious sense of humor and a huge passion for life" who will be missed by the entire team of 'Gogglebox', including its cast and crew.

“Despite her departure from the show in 2017, she remained a passionate supporter of the program, watching it every week, and she was in regular contact with the production team," the statement continued. “Our thoughts are with June’s family — Helen and Ian, Julie and Marc, and her beloved grandchildren Frances, Sam and Faye. The family would like to ask for privacy at this sad time but would like to thank the hospice staff that supported them and cared for June so wonderfully and with such compassion in her final weeks."